Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety

Treat every firearm with the respect due a loaded gun. It might be loaded, even if you think it isn’t.

Be sure of your target and what is in front of it and beyond it. Know the identifying features of the game you hunt. Make sure you have an adequate backstop—don’t shoot at a flat, hard surface or water.

Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot. This is the best way to prevent an accidental discharge.

Check your barrel and ammunition. Make sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions, and carry only the proper ammunition for your firearm.

Unload firearms when not in use. Leave actions open, and carry firearms in cases and unloaded to and from the shooting area.

Point a firearm only at something you intend to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with a gun.

Don’t run, jump, or climb with a loaded firearm. Unload a firearm before you climb a fence or tree, or jump a ditch. Pull a firearm toward you by the butt, not the muzzle.

Store firearms and ammunition separately and safely. Store each in a secured location beyond the reach of children and careless adults.

Avoid alcoholic beverages before and during shooting. Also avoid mind- or behavior-altering medicines or drugs.

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